Oklahoma Soldier Laid To Rest

NORMAN, Okla. -- An Oklahoma Army National Guard soldier killed last month in Iraq is remembered as a devout Oklahoma football fan who was dedicated to his family and country.

Funeral services were held Saturday at CrossPointe Church in Norman for 43-year-old Sgt. Daniel Michael Eshbaugh, who died Sept. 18 when his Army CH-47 helicopter crashed near Tallil, Iraq.

He was one of three members of the Lexington-based Oklahoma National Guard Detachment 1, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 149th Aviation who died in the crash. Four Texas National Guard soldiers also were killed.

Deacon Jeff Willard of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Norman officiated the service and said Eshbaugh's death was a reminder of the stark realities of war.

Eshbaugh was buried this afternoon at Fort Sill National Cemetery in Elgin.

He is survived by his wife; son, Bryan; three daughters, Jordan, Ashley and Jessica; mother and stepfather, a sister and a brother.